Team North victorious at Battle of the Border

On Sunday 28th May, 32 of the top under 11 and under 13 players from the North and South descended on Daventry Squash Club to compete in this years Battle of the Border.

The day was incredibly fast paced with all players playing four best of five matches with the aim of winning points for their region and hopefully being crowned 2023 champions.

The North took an early lead and continued their winning streak through the first half of the day with 76 points to the South's 46 points after the first eight rounds. After a tense afternoon and a total of 10 matches that battled to a 3-2 scoreline, the North secured the 2023 title by 160 points to 90.

England Squash's Talent Pathway Manager, Lucy Townley, commented:

“What a brilliant event! The standard of squash on display was fantastic and there was a real buzz to the day with everyone in great spirits. There were some extremely competitive matches and all players showed strong potential which is great news for the talent pathway moving forward."

On the North's victory, Head Coach Liam Gutcher said:

"This was the first time I've been a part of the Battle of the Border and it didn't disappoint. Huge congratulations to our northern squad who performed above expectations on the day, thoroughly deserving of the win! Thanks to team south for so many battles that went right the wire, bring on next year!"

Andy Longman, South Super Regional Head Coach, said:

"Team South had a fantastic day of squash, competing with enthusiasm and effort from start to finish. Well done Team South! Daventry Squash Club hosted us brilliantly and we pass on huge congratulations to Team North on their victory. We look forward to next year's Battle of the Border!"

Thank you to Daventry Squash Club for hosting the event, the coaches (Andy Cockerill, Andy Longman, Emily Ison, Jeremy Colton, Liam Gutcher, Kirsty McPhee) and all of the players and parents for making this event possible.

We are already looking forward to another battle next year!